We have heard that Pfizer is planning a new version of Viagra that will be available over the counter. According to Campaign magazine, Pfizer is looking at a new formulation and the product will have a completely different name.
Pfizer has previously applied for a license for Viagra to be sold over the counter without seeing a doctor but this was rejected by regulators who insisted that it was essential that patients consult with a doctor prior to a prescription for this medication being written. The reason for this is that erectile dysfunction can indicate more serious underlying conditions that may be missed if the drugs that solve erectile dysfunction or impotence were more freely available.
Our hunch is that this one will not get through the regulators for the same reason as the last attempt. Viagra is available under Patient Group Direction in the UK, where the treatment is prescribed by a pharmacist after a consultation.
The Viagra patent expires in 2012, after which time the price should come down markedly as generic versions become available on a legal basis.